Board grants parking reduction for new downtown mental‑health practice at 59–61 Albion Street; sign design returned for revision

The Wakefield Zoning Board of Appeals voted on Sept. 23 to allow a reduction in required off‑street parking for a proposed mental‑health practice at 59–61 Albion Street, but it held the sign application for redesign.

Attorney Brian McGrail presented on behalf of the property owner and introduced Dr. Steven Trichet, who plans to operate a counseling practice serving children and adults. McGrail told the board the practice will operate with a small staff and scheduled appointments; "He provides counseling for folks age 3 to 64 for disorders including anxiety, depression, autism," the attorney said, asking the board to treat the use as appropriate for downtown where parking supply is constrained.

Board members acknowledged downtown parking shortages but said medical offices typically have predictable scheduling and a smaller simultaneous peak than retail. After discussion the board granted the special permit to reduce parking and approved the use subject to the conditions discussed. Separately, the applicant’s proposed façade sign drew concern from members and several residents for its size and illumination; the board continued the sign portion of the application so the applicant can return with smaller alternatives and different material/lighting options consistent with downtown design guidance.